(CNN) – The new House speaker's tear ducts have been a national topic of conversation recently, but on Sunday John Boehner said it's a sign he's open with his emotions.

"We have big challenges in America, and I feel very strongly about addressing them. So, I get emotional," Boehner said on "Fox News Sunday." But he added, "I'm not going to apologize for being emotionally attached to the things I feel most strongly about in this town."
When asked about critics who think the crying makes him look weak, Boehner said he's just "one of the most transparent people in this town. And yes, I wear my emotions on my sleeve."

But don't expect the Ohio Republican to quit smoking.

"It's a bad habit, but I have it. And it's a legal product," Boehner said. "I choose to smoke. Leave me alone."

soundoff(26 Responses)

ThinkAgain

If then-candidate Barack Obama had teared up every time he recounted his own story (humble beginnings, divorced parents, moving around as a child, finding his way as a bi-racial person, working his tail off in school, college, graduate school, at a law firm, and then doing hours upon hours of unpaid work as a community organizer – directly helping people less fortunate than him – and managing to be an involved, loving father and husband) – the GOP would have crucified him for being too weak and emotional.

So, fine have feelings, Boehner, but GET A GRIP, and for Pete's sake, turn off the waterworks!